October 01, 2016

How to replace a dishwasher user interface control

This repair guide gives step-by-step instructions for replacing a dishwasher user interface control. The user interface control houses the selection buttons and display information such as the remaining cycle time. A defective user interface control won't light up or won't respond when you press its buttons. It’s difficult to pinpoint the user interface control as the source of a problem. Refer to the tech sheet for diagnostic tests (it's usually behind the service panel below the door) or have a local dishwasher repair expert test the control. If the user interface control is faulty, replace it with a manufacturer-approved replacement part.

This procedure works for Kenmore, Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Amana and JennAir dishwashers. You also can use the same basic steps to replace the user interface control in some Frigidaire, Electrolux, GE, Samsung and LG dishwashers.

Quick links

Video

Instructions

Tools required

Nut driver set

Torx screwdriver

Slot screwdriver

Work gloves

Repair difficulty

Time required

30 minutes or less

Replacing a dishwasher user interface control video.

How to replace a dishwasher user interface video.

Instructions

01.
Shut off electrical power
Unplug the dishwasher or shut off the house circuit breaker for the dishwasher.
To verify that power is disconnected, make sure the control panel doesn’t light up when you hit a control button or the power button.

PHOTO: Shut off the house circuit breaker.
02.
Remove the outer door panel and control panel
With the dishwasher door open, remove the Torx screws from the inner door panel. Support the outer door panel with one hand as you remove the final 2 screws so the outer door panel doesn't fall.
Separate the outer door panel and control panel slightly from the inner door panel, and rest the outer the floor while you disconnect the user interface control wire harness from the control panel.
Pull off the outer door panel and control panel.
PHOTO: Remove the outer dishwasher door panel.
03.
Remove the user interface control
Release the door handle locking tabs and pull off the door handle.
Remove the user interface control screws.
Release the side locking tabs and pull out the user interface control.
PHOTO: Remove the user interface control.
04.
Install the new user interface control
Push the new user interface control into the control panel to engage the side locking tabs.
Reinstall the user interface control screws.
Reinstall the door handle, engaging the locking tabs.
PHOTO: Install the new user interface control.
05.
Reinstall the outer door panel and control panel
Position the outer door panel and control panel close enough to the inner door so you can reconnect the user interface control wire harness.
Reconnect the user interface control wire harness and attach the outer door panel and control panel to the inner door panel.
Reinstall the mounting screws.
Tip: Use the longer screws to secure the control panel.
PHOTO: Reinstall the outer door panel.
06.
Restore electrical power
Reset the house circuit breaker or plug in the dishwasher to restore electrical power.

Warning: Undertaking repairs or maintenance to appliances or power equipment can be hazardous. Should you choose to undertake repairs or maintenance, you are assuming the risk of injury to your person or property. In an effort to reduce the risk, use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the applicable guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs or maintenance, however, should only be performed by a qualified technician.